Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring story of young ballet dancer's leap into history.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
CHARLOTTE AND THE NUTCRACKER: THE TRUE STORY OF A GIRL WHO MADE BALLET HISTORY follows the story of Charlotte, a biracial Trinidadian and Filipino girl, who has two main passions in life: Christmas and ballet. One day, after ballet class, Charlotte and her sister are taken to a ballet show by their mother. Charlotte is mesmerized by a ballet dancer's glowing brown skin, and dreams of being on a big stage one day. She commits to practicing every day, and her dream comes true when she is the first Black dancer to be cast in the role of Marie in the New York City ballet's world-famous production of The Nutcracker. When her dreams come true, she wants to be a role model for other boys and girls so they can create big dreams too. But when they curtain goes up on opening night will she be able to embody the magical spirit of Christmas on stage?
Is It Any Good?
This warm picture book puts a modern spin on a holiday classic, and proves that representation matters. Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History shares the inspiring and history-making story of author and ballerina Charlotte Nebres. This story will empower readers to chase their dreams, and it proves how powerful it is to see people who look like you in important positions. The book highlights holiday traditions of a multicultural family, and the strength of family love and support. Alea Marley's bright and dynamic illustrations from leap off the page and are filled with holiday magic and spirit.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in Charlotte and the Nutcracker: The True Story of a Girl Who Made Ballet History, Charlotte stars in The Nutcracker ballet. Have you ever been to a ballet show? What was your favorite part?
Charlotte's family has a tradition of making a holiday feast that includes making spicy meat stew and fruit pastries. Does your family have traditional holiday recipes? Which recipes are your favorites?
How do you think Charlotte felt when she got the part of Marie in the New York City ballet's production of The Nutcracker?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Alea Marley
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Arts , Holidays
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Random House Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : December 21, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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